Toto Wolff explains George Russell’s delayed Mercedes contract renewal: “We had to recalibrate some terms”. George Russell will stay with Mercedes in 2026 alongside Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

George Russell will continue to race for the Mercedes Formula 1 team in 2026, remaining alongside young Italian talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Considering the path taken by other teams on the grid, the renewal of Russell’s contract was always the most logical step for the Brackley-based outfit — and now it has officially been confirmed.

The process, however, took longer than expected. The announcement arrived only in mid-October, sparking plenty of speculation about George Russell’s situation within the team. Several reports suggested that the British driver had grown uneasy after rumors emerged that Mercedes had explored the possibility of signing four-time world champion Max Verstappen for the future.

Wolff: “We had to recalibrate some terms”

Ultimately, Mercedes and George Russell agreed to a 1+1 contract structure — one guaranteed year with an option for an additional season — including specific clauses designed to benefit both sides. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff addressed the matter after the United States Grand Prix in Austin, providing some insight into why the negotiations took so long.

“We took our time,” Toto Wolff said, as quoted by Formula1.com. “We handled the discussions in the right way, making sure everyone involved was satisfied with the outcome.”

The main source of delay, Toto Wolff explained, was linked to the evolution of George Russell’s status within the team. “When you negotiate a deal with a driver who has gone from being a junior to becoming a team leader — and who has shown what he’s capable of — you need to readjust. You need to recalibrate certain terms. That’s exactly what we did,” the Mercedes co-owner added.

Russell’s renewal ensures Mercedes retains stability as it prepares for the 2026 Formula 1 regulation overhaul. Alongside Kimi Antonelli, the British driver will play a crucial role in guiding the team through its next development phase, with Wolff confident that the extended partnership reflects the growing maturity and leadership qualities of the 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix winner.